What's included with the pickup, and how do I control the microphonic effect?

The EMG ACB ships with acoustic plugs (0.125 inches wide) that let you dial in the amount of head-vibration microphonics in your signal, plus a steel shim-stock strip (0.002 inches thick) for consistent head tension sensing. You adjust the effect by inserting or removing plugs to suit your playing style and venue.

How long do the batteries last, and what type are they?

Two 6V Lithium batteries power the pickup and are rated for 600 hours of continuous operation. At typical gigging and session use, you'll get months of reliable performance before replacement.

Will this pickup work on both 4-string and 6-string banjos?

Yes, the EMG ACB is designed for both 4-string and 6-string banjos. Its compensated pole pieces ensure even string balance across different gauges and configurations.

Is this pickup suitable for metal or hard rock?

No, the EMG ACB is engineered specifically for folk, country, and acoustic styles where the natural microphonic character and controlled resonance of a banjo are essential. It's not optimized for metal or hard rock applications.

What noise performance can I expect in a live or recording environment?

The pickup delivers -120 dB output noise at 60 Hz with a resonant frequency of 2.00 kHz, ensuring clarity and definition even in electrically noisy venues or studios. The active preamp design provides exceptional noise rejection for professional-grade signal conditioning.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $21 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG ACB 4/6-String Bass Pickup (Banjo)

The EMG ACB is a sophisticated active pickup system engineered to capture the full acoustic character of a banjo while delivering a noise-free, reinforced signal for stage and studio work. Its dual-coil design with integrated preamp transforms the natural resonance of the instrument into a controlled, performance-ready output without sacrificing the microphonic texture that defines banjo tone.

Pickup Design & Acoustic Response

This dual-coil pickup with Alnico magnet incorporates three acoustic chambers that allow the banjo head's vibrations to contribute a natural microphonic element to the signal. The included acoustic plugs give you precise control over this effect, while the steel shim-stock strip ensures consistent sensing of head tension across varied playing dynamics and ensures reliable performance night after night.

Electronics & Power

The active preamp design boosts your signal while maintaining exceptional noise rejection—essential for live performance and recording in electrically noisy venues. Powered by two Lithium batteries (6V, rated for 600 hours of operation), the pickup delivers a resonant frequency of 2.00 kHz with -120 dB output noise at 60 Hz—ensuring clarity and dependability on any stage.

Key Features

Dual-coil pickup with Alnico magnet design
Active preamp with noise-free operation
Three acoustic chambers for microphonic enhancement
Included acoustic plugs (.125" wide) to control microphonics
Included steel shim-stock strip (.002" thick) for head sensing
Compensated pole pieces for even string balance across gauges
Compatible with 4-string and 6-string banjos
Powered by two Lithium batteries (6V); 600-hour battery life
Resonant frequency: 2.00 kHz
Output impedance: 2.00 kOhm
Current draw @ 6V: 340 microamps
Maximum supply: 18 Volts DC

The EMG ACB balances acoustic authenticity with professional signal conditioning, delivering the noise floor and durability banjoists need for consistent live performance and recording reliability.

Best suited for	Live Performance, Studio Sessions, Folk, Country
Tonal character	Natural microphonic character, noise-free signal, controlled acoustic resonance, studio-ready output, clear high-mid presence
Less specialized for	Metal, Hard Rock (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional